Co-production from the Perspectives of People Who Have Experienced Homelessness

Homelessness is a growing and highly mediatised issue. Based on a project developing a community of practice to tackle homelessness in Northern England, this chapter presents reflections on the research processes, forefronting experts by experience's (EbE) views. We highlight the sense of value, identity, and belonging that can be generated, the importance of stories, how and when to tell them, and the practicalities of being involved in research. We provide five key lessons for researchers working with people with experience of homelessness (PEH) and/or those from marginalised communities or with multiple and complex needs. This includes being cognisant of EbE histories, ensuring EbE always feel in control, taking a flexible and inclusive approach to engagement, being aware of the potential impact of the project on EbE, and careful consideration of practicalities, such as payments. Public involvement has to be understood as having value in and of itself rather than solely as informing the research. Further critical public involvement research should explore the complexity and richness of the relationships created through Public Involvement and Community Engagement (PICE).